The Centrality of Teaching in Jesus' Ministry

James R. Edwards, The Gospel According to Mark:

Jesus again [6:6b] embarks on a mission circuit, “teaching from village to village” (1:14, 39; also Matt. 9:35). As earlier, the defining element of his ministry is teaching. Jesus is popularly conceived of as undertaking a ministry of “presence” or of compassion and healing. These were indeed important elements of his ministry, but they do not identify the dominant purpose of his ministry, which, according to Mark, was teaching. The doing of a deed, even the performing of a miracle, does not necessarily exact any commitment from those who behold them. They may, if they choose, remain simply impressed, without considering the possible significance of the event for their lives. Even if they consider the event further, they may be mistaken in its significance (e.g., 3:22). But teaching involves “the word” (2:2), which affords a clearer and more precise window into Jesus’ person and mission, and with it the possibility of greater understanding and commitment. (177)

(posted by Kevin DeYoung)